Sports

Top Bars To Watch Super Bowl 2014 In Philadelphia

The Eagles might not be in the Super Bowl this year (their second and last appearance was in 2004), but who doesn’t love a good game of football? If staying at home and cleaning up spilled beer from the floor isn’t your cup of tea this February 2nd, Philly has some fantastic sports bars to check out. Here are some of the best.

Voted “Best Bar To Watch A Game” in 2011 and 2012 by Philly Beer Scene Magazine, City Tap House is perfect for a large group. It boasts one of the largest selections of craft beer on tap (60 taps) in the city and serves innovative American pub fare. Sit by one of the many TVs in the bar area and enjoy food perfect for the Super Bowl, like spiced wings, pastrami sliders or pulled pork nachos. If you need a break from the game, this University City bar has one of the best rooftop terraces, complete with fire pits.

This cluster of bars and restaurants in the South Philly Sports Complex is dubbed as the “fourth stadium experience.” The NBC Sports Arena, with its 32-foot diagonal LED HDTV, is the closest you’ll get to watching the game live. Not for those looking to relax and dive into conversation, NBC Sports Arena’s lively environment consists of high-energy and enthusiastic sports fans. This bar has a full menu of pub food, such as burgers, wraps, wings, fried mozzarella and more.

O’Neals Pub has been around for almost 35 years, and with its 18 HD Plasma TVs, you won’t miss a second of the game. This family-run South Street establishment has a humongous micro-brew and liquor list (with drink specials during NFL games!) and is known as South Street’s “Beer Authority.” More than 19 beers are on draft and 100-plus bottles are available. Its Irish pub fare is perfect for game day with classics like shepherd’s pie, beef stew and fish and chips. O’Neals also serves favorite football-watching appetizers, such as chicken wings, nachos and mac n’ cheese.

Public House is one of the premier spots in the Art Museum District and Logan Square to watch a game. During the game, patrons can enjoy drink specials, including Yuengling, Coors Light and Victory Lager drafts for only $3. This classy bar has a huge projection screen and HDTVs on every wall for your viewing pleasure and a great beer, wine and cocktail list. The menu is made up of sophisticated American cuisine, including the pan-seared tilapia and lemon basil grilled chicken, and also has some pretty awesome appetizers (crispy chicken strips, wings, buffalo shrimp and more).

Tavern On Broad is conveniently located below the Bellevue Hotel on the corner of Broad and Walnut. This Center City sports bar has a good mixture of open space and more private areas and can accommodate both small and large groups. The bar has 40 HDTVs, six distinct sound zones and three private areas. The menu is moderately priced and features American pub food. Try something from the Tavern Classics (cheesesteaks, slow smoked pulled pork sandwich, French dip sandwich) or try one of its $10 sliders or $5 burger. Also enjoy game-day drink specials, including $3 Coors Light.

Kelly Neilson is a freelance writer living and working in Philadelphia. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.